The IIT Tag’s Value Outside India
A London-based technology professional recently shared insights on social media regarding the actual significance of the IIT designation beyond India’s borders. Kunal Kushwaha, the individual in question, received a message from a job seeker requesting a referral for a role in artificial intelligence (AI).
Kushwaha pointed out that candidates often miss the opportunity to highlight what differentiates them in job applications when they emphasise their college name. He remarked, “Got a message today that began with ‘I’m an IIT alumnus’ and asked for a referral for an AI role. I understand how hard the job search can be. It takes courage to reach out. But when messages are short, every word matters. Leading with a college name can sometimes miss the opportunity to show what truly sets you apart,” shared Kushwaha on X (formerly Twitter).
@Kunal Kushwaha (May 17, 2025):
“Got a message today that began with ‘I’m an IIT alumnus’ and asked for a referral for an AI role. I understand how hard the job search can be…
The tech professional further commented that even the most prestigious IITs have students who struggle with securing placements. “Even top IITs have students who struggle with placements. What really stands out is your work, the projects you’ve built, the problems you’ve solved, your passion for the field,” he mentioned.
Kushwaha also warned that relying solely on a college tag can be misleading, especially in global contexts. “But it’s dangerous to think your college tag will make the difference; maybe it still carries weight in India, but not if you’re aiming for remote roles at global companies,” he explained.
He candidly noted that outside India, the IIT designation is not a significant factor. “I live in London now, have been around the world, and have friends in companies of all sizes. And honestly, outside India, no one cares about your IIT tag. Just a gentle suggestion, lead with your work, not just the name,” he advised.
Kushwaha’s comments sparked a variety of responses online, with some users supporting his view while others defended the IIT label’s worth. “It only makes sense to reach out if the person is from the same university. The acceptance rate is much higher when there’s a relatable connection; otherwise, it’s not very effective,” one user noted.
Another user stated, “Agree with everything except needlessly dissing the IIT tag. People in the Bay Area know and value it. It can pretty much change the entire tone of a conversation.” A third user remarked, “This. The global game runs on outcomes, not alma maters. Lead with what you’ve done, not just where you’ve been.”
One more user commented, “Having IIT in his headline tells you that this person is already hardworking enough to crack the exam. The work might not be that good but that is for later. For an opening message, this person played on their strengths/selling points. Nothing wrong in my opinion. What would be a great headline, as per you, to make you open the message and connect?”
